When it comes to little gadgets to take vital space up at your desk the USB Mug Warmer ranks very highly. Unfortunately this is the only thing it does well, as for me it proved to be a waste of space. Generally a lot of 'gadgets' are just for novelty value, and I guess this is the reason I were bought this gift for my birthday earlier this year. I guess the reason I decided to review it now was because the cold weather is finally upon us, and what better way to welcome it is with a hot cup of tea at your desk, yes? NO! The USB Mug Warmer is intended to keep your cup/mug of hot drink warm for a little while longer, this is the real issue to be honest. I found that the heat given off by the USB Mug Warmer wasn't near enough in order to keep the drink warm, although it did stop it from going completely cold if I am being honest.

The USB Mug Warmer is of a very simple design. There is a USB cable which allows you to attach the holder directly to either your PC or laptop - anything with a USB socket basically that can provide power for the unit. Your cup then sits on the holder, which has a stylish brushed aluminium finish to it. The plate on which you rest your cup is generous, allowing for any drips. Obviously you want to keep them away from electricals, so perhaps it would be best not to encourage drinking at the computer altogether?!

The USB Mug Holder has an On/Off switch at the back, allowing you to leave it plugged in all the time and just turning it on when you need to. The obvious flaw to the product is that the heating element within the holder doesn't get anywhere near warm enough to maintain a reasonable temperature of your drink, but this is just a novelty gadget afterall so I didn't expect anything more in all honesty.

The other issue for me is safety. Obviously it isn't advised to have a drink of any kind at the desk with electrical items, but especially to have a wire leading to a holder which holds your drink is even more dangerous. Wires can easily be caught, and the drink could soon either end up in your lap (scalding you) or on the keyboard or laptop (electric shock, perhaps?), neither outcome appeals to me personally.

Overall I have to say that the USB Mug Holder is a complete waste of time and money. they are available from most good gadget stores and make a fun novelty gift, but if you want to get something actually worthwhile then it is best putting that £5 towards something useful. Not practical whatsoever.